CALLOUS lead thieves have targeted Red Cross House in Irvine – for the third time in six months.

Their latest sick attempt to strip lead from the roof of the centre – which cares for some of the most vulnerable people in the community – came in the early hours of Monday.

It was the second time in a fortnight they had struck at the centre in Tarryholme Drive.

On previous occasions they took roofing lead leaving the centre with a £3000 headache.

Their latest attempt centred on the library roof but they left empty-handed when a neighbour spotted lights on the roof and called the police.

Lead and other metals on the roof are coated in special indelible anti-vandalism paint which stains skin on contact.

The paint also alerts scrap dealers to the fact that the material has been stolen.

Margaret Geddes, manager of the British Red Cross Options for Independence Centre, said: “This is the third time in six months and second time in a fortnight that we have been targeted by metal thieves taking lead from our roof.

“In that time, we have had to spend more than £3000 on repairs – money which could have been better spent elsewhere.

“Why anyone would target a Red Cross building where people are among the most vulnerable in society is beyond understanding.

“As well as paying for repairs to the roof, we will now have to spend more money on anti-theft measures.

“Obviously we are very grateful to the person who spotted the thieves on Monday and raised the alarm.

“We are part of the fabric of the local community and it is heartening to know they are looking out for us.”